Zoning Permits

Special Use Permit Application

A Special Use Permit is required when certain land uses are allowed only within the approval of the City Commission due to their unique locational characteristics, or the services they provide to the public. Generally, uses within a zoning district are either permitted "by right" under the zoning code or by "special use permit". The uses allowed by special use permit are listed in the city ordinances under Chapter 1290 of the Planning and Zoning Code. Special Use Permits require review and approval by the Planning Commission and City Commission which take approximately 45-60 days.

Rezoning / Conditional Rezoning Application

A Rezoning / Conditional Rezoning is when someone is proposing to use property within the City of Battle Creek in a manner not allowed under the current zoning classification of that land; the property owner may petition the City for a change in the zoning. This is called "rezoning" or a "conditional rezoning." Rezoning requests require review and approval by the Planning Commission and City Commission and take approximately 60 days.

Zoning Board of Appeals Variance Requests

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hear appeals from an aggrieved party as it relates to a decision of the Zoning Administrator, or to request a variance from the requirements of the Planning and Zoning Code (Part Twelve) of the City Ordinances. Zoning regulates land uses, population densities, lot coverage, building size and location, and thereby provides a means which to implement the City's Comprehensive Plan. The overall objectives of zoning is to protect public health, safety, and welfare; to promote compatibility among various land uses and developments; and to provide for an attractive and efficient community. A request to the Zoning Board of Appeals takes approximately 30 days.

A Local Historic District is a historically significant area that is protected by historic district ordinance under the authority of Michigan PA 169 of 1970. The City of Battle Creek has designated five (5) Local Historic Districts in order to preserve the architectural, historical, and/or cultural resources of the community. Any proposed modifications affecting the exterior appearance of buildings and property improvements within a historic district require submittal of an application for approval. Minor classes of work can be approved administratively, while larger projects require HDC approval which takes approximately 30 days.

Site Plan Review Application

A Site Plan Review is a plan of a proposed development showing the relationship of the site features to one another and to the surrounding area, including buildings, streets, parking, landscaping and all other improved surfaces. It is required for all new development and expansion of existing development except single-family homes, 2-family housing units, agricultural uses, and uses with less than 4 off street parking spaces. Reviews may also be required for businesses which have been closed for one-year or more and are making site alterations. Note: Applications are to be submitted to the Planning Department at the location noted on the application.

Site Plan Review approval is done internally by staff and is not presented to the Planning Commission for approval. All efforts are made to approve a site plan within ten days of submittal. If a site plan is incomplete, staff will contact the applicant within ten days of submittal, listing necessary revisions to the site plan.

Home Occupation Permit / Application

The City of Battle Creek zoning ordinance allow occupants of residential zoned properties to operate a Home Occupation from that property, subject to limitations. The zoning further requires a Home Occupation permit and Certificate of Occupancy for a Home Occupation. For additional information such as permitted types of home occupations and restrictions; please refer to Chapter 1292 "Home Occupations" of the City of Battle Creek Codified Ordinances. This permit is reviewed and approved internally and will take not more than five(5) business days.